Differences and Similarities Between Kashmir and Kerala Houseboats
While planning your vacation and instead of booking regular hotels, why not try something new and unique? Staying in a houseboat is one of the best options. In India, there are only two states/UTs where you can experience houseboats one is Kerala, and the other is Kashmir. However, there is a major difference between these two types of houseboats. Let’s explore the main differences to help you decide which one to choose.
This guide takes a closer look at the differences and similarities between houseboats in Kashmir and Kerala. It explains how these houseboats are built, how their designs differ, and what kind of amenities, comfort, and hospitality experience travelers can expect in each destination.
Let’s explore the key similarities and major differences between Kerala and Kashmir houseboats to help you decide which experience suits your travel style better.
The main difference between houseboats in Kerala and Kashmir lies in their purpose, design, and location. Kerala houseboats, or “Kettuvallams,” are primarily used for tourism on backwaters and feature thatched roofs. In contrast, Kashmir houseboats are stationary, made of wood, and serve as luxurious floating homes on Dal Lake or Nigeen Lake. Let’s explore in detail what sets these floating accommodations apart.
Houseboat of Kashmir vs Houseboats of Kerala
Kerala houseboats, known as kettuvallams are traditional, eco-friendly boats designed for slow cruising through the backwaters. They offer a nature focused experience, allowing travelers to glide through lush landscapes, observe local life and enjoy basic to luxurious amenities in a simple and traditional setting.
In contrast, Kashmir houseboats are stationary, lavish floating homes on lakes such as Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake. Built from fine deodar and walnut wood with intricate carvings, these houseboats feature luxurious interiors, including chandeliers, Persian rugs and comfortable accommodations. The focus is on providing a regal, heritage rich stay with stunning scenic views from a fixed location, rather than a cruising experience.
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Houseboats in Kerala
Houseboats in Kerala, known as Kettuvallams, cruise along the serene backwaters, offering picturesque views of lush greenery, coconut groves, and tranquil waters. As these houseboats float, they also provide stay options with world-class facilities.
These Kerala houseboats were once used to transport goods and spices across the backwaters of Kerala. But today, these kettuvallams have been converted into luxury accommodations, where you can enjoy quality time amidst Alleppey’s enchanting backwaters.
In Kerala houseboats, you will have the options from budget friendly to luxury options like houseboats with single rooms, double rooms, and triple rooms with private balconies. For a luxurious experience, every room in a Kerala houseboat has attached bathrooms with all the facilities such as flush toilets, showers, and washbasins.
You can enjoy both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food on a Kerala houseboat. The food is usually served on a banana leaf, and traditionally, you eat with your hands.
Kerala’s houseboat tours cover routes through Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kollam, and other scenic locations. Additionally, resorts offer guided canoe trips through secluded inland waterways that can’t be reached by road.
Houseboats in Kashmir
Kashmiri houseboats are often made from cedar wood and feature intricate wood carvings. The houseboats in Kashmir are found in lakes like Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake in Srinagar. However, the most famous are the Dal Lake houseboats. These houseboats are more luxurious than the Kerala Houseboats.
Typically, the houseboats in Kashmir have options of 3-4 rooms with attached bathrooms and a dining area. You will also have a sun deck where you can enjoy the serene beauty of Dal Lake and the surrounding area. With round-the-clock electricity, you will also enjoy food cooked by the owner or caretaker of the houseboat. Here you can book Houseboat in Srinagar online.
Location and Environment
Kerala Houseboats
Location: Kerala houseboats, known as “Kettuvallams,” float on the serene backwaters of Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Kollam.
Scenery: Surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and coconut groves
Kashmiri Houseboats
Location: Located on Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake in Srinagar, Stationary boats moored to the shore.
Scenery: Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, these houseboats offer breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and blooming gardens.
Design and Architecture
Kerala Houseboats
- Materials: Constructed primarily from bamboo, coir, and wood, these houseboats showcase traditional craftsmanship.
- Structure: Kerala houseboats often feature thatched roofs and open-air decks, creating a rustic and cozy atmosphere.
Kashmir Houseboats
- Materials: Made from high-quality wood, Kashmir houseboats exhibit intricate carvings and ornate designs.
- Structure: These houseboats resemble floating wooden cottages with luxurious interiors, including carved furniture and rich carpets.
Cultural Experience
Kerala Houseboats
- Cuisine: Relish traditional Kerala dishes, including fresh seafood, coconut-infused curries, and appams.
- Activities: Witness local life along the backwaters, enjoy cultural performances, and visit nearby villages.
Kashmiri Houseboats
- Cuisine: Savor Kashmiri delicacies such as Rogan Josh, Yakhni, and Kahwa (traditional tea).
- Activities: Explore the rich Kashmiri culture, visit historic sites, and shop for handicrafts and Pashmina shawls.
Best Time to Visit
Kerala Houseboats
- Season: The best time to enjoy Kerala houseboats is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and the monsoon season has ended.
Kashmiri Houseboats
- Season: The ideal time to visit Kashmir houseboats is from April to October, avoiding the harsh winter months.
Key Differences Between Kerala and Kashmir Houseboats
| Aspect | Kerala Houseboats | Kashmir Houseboats |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Backwaters of Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kollam | Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake in Srinagar |
| Scenery | Lush green landscapes, coconut groves, tranquil waters | Majestic Himalayan views, snow-capped mountains, blooming gardens |
| Materials | Bamboo, coir, and wood; traditional craftsmanship | High-quality wood, intricate carvings, ornate designs |
| Structure | Thatched roofs, open-air decks, rustic atmosphere | Floating wooden cottages, luxurious interiors, carved furniture |
| Facilities | Comfortable bedrooms, attached bathrooms, dining area, deck | Well-appointed bedrooms, modern bathrooms, sitting room, sundeck |
| Experience | Relaxing cruise, fishing, observing local life | Luxurious retreat, shikara rides, visiting floating markets |
| Cuisine | Traditional Kerala dishes, seafood, coconut curries | Kashmiri delicacies, Rogan Josh, Yakhni, Kahwa (tea) |
| Activities | Local village visits, cultural performances | Exploring historic sites, shopping for handicrafts and Pashmina shawls |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March for pleasant weather | April to October to avoid harsh winter months |
Similarities Between Kerala and Kashmir Houseboats
Houseboats in Kerala and Kashmir share several core similarities, even though the experiences they offer are quite distinct. In both destinations, houseboats serve as floating accommodations that allow travelers to stay directly on the water, whether cruising through Kerala’s backwaters or staying anchored on Dal Lake or Nigeen Lake in Kashmir.
Another major similarity lies in their traditional craftsmanship. Both Kerala and Kashmiri houseboats are built using region-specific natural materials and reflect local architectural styles that have evolved over generations.
Traditional Design and Construction
Kerala houseboats, locally known as kettuvallams are traditionally constructed using jackfruit tree wood for the framework along with bamboo, coconut fibre and coir. These materials help regulate temperature naturally and suit the tropical climate of the backwaters.
Kashmir houseboats, called Naav in the local language, are built primarily from deodar (cedar) wood. Their interiors feature hand-carved walnut wood furniture, detailed wooden paneling and ornamental ceilings. The intricate woodwork reflects Kashmir’s royal heritage and traditional craftsmanship.
Comfort, Amenities and Safety
Kerala houseboats focus on simplicity, comfort and close interaction with nature. They operate under strict safety standards and are regularly inspected. Common amenities include:
- Air conditioning (usually at night)
- Attached bathrooms
- Television and Wi-Fi (limited connectivity)
- Functional kitchen
- Single, double, or triple bedrooms
- Private balconies and sun decks
- Large windows facing the backwaters
- Life jackets, fire extinguishers, and trained onboard staff
Kashmir Houseboats
Kashmir houseboats emphasize warmth, elegance and premium interiors. Many luxury houseboats, especially on Nigeen Lake, offer a high-end, hotel-like experience. Typical amenities include:
- 2 to 6 bedrooms with attached bathrooms
- Living and dining areas
- Panoramic front balconies and sun decks
- Television and Wi-Fi
- Heating and air conditioning
- Continuous electricity and clean water supply
- Pantry or small kitchen
- Dedicated caretakers and cooks
- High standards of cleanliness and security
Tourism Experience and Activities
Kerala Houseboat Experience
Kerala houseboat stays usually involve slow cruising through interconnected backwaters for durations ranging from day trips to multi-day journeys. The experience includes passing through villages, coconut groves, paddy fields and canals. Boats often stop near local attractions, temples and village areas. Guided experiences may include visits to coir-making units, local markets and cultural sites.
Kashmir Houseboat Experience
Kashmir houseboats function more like floating hotels and are generally stationary. Stays can range from overnight visits to extended stays of several weeks. Activities focus on lake exploration and nearby sightseeing. Guests can enjoy traditional shikara rides, visits to floating gardens, local markets and historic attractions in Srinagar. Guided city tours are also commonly arranged.
Cuisine and Onboard Dining
Both Kerala and Kashmir houseboats offer freshly prepared onboard meals, reflecting the culinary traditions of their regions.
Kerala Houseboat Cuisine
Kerala houseboat meals are predominantly coastal and feature rice-based dishes, seafood and coconut-infused curries. Meals are often served on banana leaves. Popular dishes include pearl spot fish, appam, vegetable stews and coconut-based curries. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available.
Kashmir Houseboat Cuisine
Kashmir houseboats serve aromatic North Indian and traditional Kashmiri dishes prepared with spices such as saffron, cardamom, and cockscomb flower. Signature non-vegetarian dishes include Rogan Josh, Yakhni and Wazwan-style meals. Vegetarian offerings commonly include Dum Aloo, Rajma Chawal, Nadru Yakhni (lotus stem), Kashmiri Pulao and traditional breads served with kahwa.
Deciding where to go
There is a major difference between these two types of houseboats, so first, consider the kind of experience you want before choosing between Kashmir houseboats and Kerala houseboats. Either way, you’re guaranteed to have a unique experience on both.
While both Kerala and Kashmir offer unique houseboat experiences, they differ significantly in terms of environment, design, and cultural context. Kerala’s houseboats provide a journey through tropical backwaters, while Kashmir’s offer a stationary retreat on picturesque lakes.